"The letters of great and good men give us information about them which can be derived from no other source," say Frank Gasquet, one of the organizers of this book. Unlike any other literature, a letter provides us with a window into the soul of its author; it allows us to see the author's personal characteristics, cares, emotions, gifts, and vices. It addition to their great historical importance, the letters of Saint Bernard give us an indicator of St. Bernard's religious and political influence. St. Bernard exchanged letters with men and women of many different statures--his correspondents included monk, deacons, bishops, abbots, kings, holy virgins, countesses, popes, dukes, and duchesses. St. Bernard was always lively in his presentation and pleasant in his tone, even when he was fiercely defending his faith. He frequently incorporated biblical allusions in his writing. He also relied heavily on the trusted teachings of St. Ambrose and St. Augustine, two of his favorite church fathers. There is much truth and warmth to be found in the letters of St. Bernard.

Emmalon Davis
CCEL Staff Writer